Travatan Z is an ophthalmic (eye) solution consisting of a prostaglandin analog called travoprost. We carry both the brand name and the generic choice in 0.004%.

Travatan Z is prescribed to those with open-angle glaucoma. This is a condition that causes eye pain, headache, cloudy vision, and eye redness. Open-angle glaucoma is a condition where the angle in the eye, where the iris meets the cornea, is open and as wide as it should be, however, the eyes drainage canals may be blocked. Over time, this will cause a buildup of fluid in the eye, which causes high pressure.  Additionally, this medication may be used for any condition that causes high pressure to occur in the eye.

Travatan Z (travoprost) is effective at treating open-angle glaucoma because of its ability to regulate the fluids flow within the eye to help maintain a normal pressure.

Only use this medication the way it has been prescribed to you. Do not use more or less than prescribed; or for longer than recommended. Do not wear eye contact lenses while administering these eye drops. Store at room temperature away from areas at risk of moisture and heat. Keep the bottle lid tight when not in use.

Most patients only need one drop per affected eye each evening.  

How to administer

1.       Tilt your head back

2.       Look upward

3.       Form a pouch by pulling down on your lower eyelid

4.       Hold the dropper above the eye; apply one drop into the pouch

5.       Look down and gently close your eyes for 1 – 2 minutes

Do not use Travatan Z (travoprost)

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to travoprost or if you are under the age of 16 years old.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

To ensure this medication is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had swelling or an infection in your eye, retinal detachment, or eye drudgery or injury affecting the lens of your eyes.

Risks

Long-term use of this medication can cause a gradual change in the color of your eyes, eyelids, and lashes, usually an increase in brown pigment. There may also be an increase in the growth or thickness of your eyelashes. It is likely you will not notice the difference until looking back years later.

It is not known if this medication will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are currently pregnant or if you have plans on becoming pregnant.

It isn’t yet known if this medication will pass into breast milk or if it will harm a nursing infant. Let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding.

Common side effects of Travatan Z (travoprost) may include:

Pain, itching, or redness of the eyes; puffy eyelids; or blurred vision.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Travatan Z (travoprost) may include:

Eye swelling, redness, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage (may be signs of infection); red, swollen, or itchy eyelids; increased sensitivity to light; vision changes; or severe burning, stinging, or irritation after using travoprost ophthalmic.

If you have any of the above side effects or signs of complications, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

What age do you have to be to use Travatan Z?

To use this medication, you must be at least 16 years old.

What is the best dose for an adult with open-angle glaucoma?

The best dose for an adult with open-angle glaucoma is typically one drop in each affected eye per day.

What other factors may cause high pressure in the eye?

High pressure in the eye can be caused by excessive aqueous production (extra fluid production), inadequate aqueous drainage (cannot drain fluid properly; which is the case of open-angle glaucoma), medications (and their side effects), eye trauma (which may affect aqueous production and/or drainage), and other medical eye conditions including pseudoexfoliation syndrome, pigment dispersion syndrome and corneal arcus.

Why do I have to take my contact lenses out to apply the eye drops?

It is recommended you take out any contact lenses before applying the eye drops because this medication can permanently discolor them.